Research Reveals Gen Z Trusts Health Information From Influencers Than Doctors

Pexels/Mikhail Nilov

JAKARTA - The source of information that is believed to be about health now seems to be experiencing a shift, especially among young people. Generation Z or gen Z is said to have more confidence in health information from social media influencers than doctors.

This was revealed through research conducted by communication company Edelman. Research was conducted with a survey of respondents aged 18-34 years, which included the young millennial group and Gen Z from 16 countries about their belief in doctors.

It was found that about 45 percent of younger age groups believed that health information was spread through social media compared to doctors. The growth of social media has exacerbated distrust of medical personnel.

"As a doctor, I've seen more young people use TikTok and group chats, rather than previously taking cell phones and contacting doctors," said Chief Technology Officer at DRSONO Medical, Dr. Charles Carlsen, quoted byok, on Thursday, July 17, 2025.

The survey conducted by Edelman also revealed that a third of gen Z said they had followed the advice of influencers. With 33 percent reporting that they have allowed content creators without medical training to influence personal health decisions.

Not only that, but Gen Z is also twice as likely than older adults allowing people without formal medical credentials to influence their health care.

On TikTok, the hashtag #medicaladvice already has more than 39 thousand uploads and #healthtok has more than 153,000 uploads. Regarding mental health, TikTok also plays an increasingly big role.

Doctors say that many young people are looking for ADHD diagnosis or autism spectrum disorders after exposure to social media content. This is already at an alarming stage.

"Frankly, this is a public health problem. Even though support from seniors and online newsletter boards is useful, this is not a proof-based replacement," he said.

Doctor Carlsen reminded young people, especially Gen Z, to continue consulting with doctors if they experience health complaints. Health problems should not be left alone because of the influence of social media, because they can have a dangerous impact.

I once treated patients who delayed treatment for serious illness as someone online said it was normal. And they ended up being treated in the ER a few weeks later, "concluded Doctor Carlsen.